Vertin 16: Uses, How It Works, Side Effects

What is Vertin 16 used for?

Vertin 16 is a prescription medicine. It is used, on a doctor's advice, to relieve the symptoms of Meniere's disease.

• Relieving the symptoms of Meniere's disease: vertigo, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), hearing loss and nausea

How does Vertin 16 work?

Betahistine is thought to improve blood flow in the inner ear, which lowers the pressure that causes symptoms. This reduces how often the symptoms occur.

What happens in your body after you take it

1. You swallow the tablet

   The tablet dissolves in the gut and betahistine is absorbed into the blood. You can eat normally with it.

2. It travels in the blood

   Betahistine is carried around the body and reaches the inner ear.

3. It is thought to improve inner-ear blood flow

   In the inner ear, betahistine is thought to improve blood flow and reduce the pressure that builds up there.

4. Vertigo attacks become less frequent

   With lower inner-ear pressure, spinning, ringing in the ears and nausea may occur less often.

5. The body clears it

   The body breaks betahistine down and removes it in the urine, which is why it is taken several times a day.

How to take Vertin 16

Take Vertin 16 exactly as your doctor has prescribed or as printed on the pack. Your doctor decides the dose and how long you need it.

• It is usually taken three times a day, spread through the day.
• You can eat normally with it. Follow the label or your doctor's advice.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember, unless the next dose is nearly due; then skip it. Do not take two doses together.
• Tell your doctor if vertigo keeps returning or comes with other symptoms.

Side effects of Vertin 16

Most people have few problems, but a few side effects need medical help.

Uncommon or mild

• Nausea
• Indigestion
• Headache

Who should be careful

Some people need to check with a doctor before taking Vertin 16, or need extra care while taking it.

• Allergy to betahistine or a past serious reaction to it
• Low blood pressure
• Stomach (peptic) ulcer now or in the past
• Asthma
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: not usually used; ask your doctor
• Vertigo with double vision, vision loss, hearing loss, trouble speaking, or weakness or numbness in an arm or leg needs urgent medical help

Medicines and things that interact with Vertin 16

Tell your doctor or pharmacist about everything you take, including herbal remedies.

• MAOI antidepressants: check with your doctor first
• Antihistamines used for allergies: may reduce its effect; check with your doctor
• Other medicines, herbal remedies and supplements: tell your doctor

If someone takes too much

Storage

Store below 30 C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture, in the original strip or pack, and out of the reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date. Check the pack for the exact storage instructions.

Regulatory status in India

Sold in India as a prescription medicine. Vertin 16 contains betahistine only. The schedule and regulatory position are to be confirmed from the pack and the Drugs Rules.

Other brands with the same medicine

Betahistine 16 mg tablets are sold under other brand names and as generic medicines. They contain the same medicine; check the label for the strength. Do not switch products without asking your doctor.

Other strengths and forms

Betahistine is sold in other strengths. The strength is printed on the pack and is not the same across products, so check the label of the one you have.

Common questions